MCAD Tech News #154

Pelion
Systems offers software tools that get to the root of process improvement

In the previous installment of MCAD Tech
News (click here for archives), we discussed the fact that
the full benefits of lean manufacturing are realized when their principles
are applied enterprisewide. Just a few months ago I became aware of a related
concept, known as MPO (manufacturing process optimization), put forth in
a comprehensive suite of software modules by Pelion Systems.
Although not exactly a new principle, MPO obviously focuses on improving the
most basic, most important aspect of any lean principle: process. Pelion Systems
has been around for nearly ten years and has developed a unique model-based
system for optimizing manufacturing processes that synchronize the supply
chain with the factory floor.

It?s no secret that global competition is forcing many manufacturers to
deliver more custom products faster and at lower prices. These intense competitive
pressures, coupled with today?s economic conditions, are forcing manufacturers
to look for ways to improve customer-service levels while lowering operating
costs and inventory levels. All in all, a tall order. Meeting these competitive
and economic challenges requires the transformation of manufacturing processes
from forecast-driven (push) to demand-driven (pull).

Pelion Systems' Solution
In attempting to meet these challenges, many companies are implementing,
or have implemented, manufacturing improvement strategies such as lean,
six sigma or TPS (Toyota Production System) to improve customer service
and response while simultaneously reducing operating costs and freeing up
working capital. However, the successes are difficult to sustain, and many
efforts end in failure. What causes these manufacturing improvement initiatives
to fail? Pelion Systems says it has found several common reasons. Read more >>

Cadalyst Labs Review:
VX CAD/CAM v11

by Don LaCourse

VX CAD/CAM is one of the best lesser-known applications
on the market today. It's a hybrid modeler built on third-generation proprietary
kernel technology. VX CAD/CAM supports advanced surface and solid modeling
with optional integrated mold and die and CAM modules. Being a hybrid application
means that users can model using surfaces or solids and combine the two data
types in assemblies, layouts and CAM plans.

I've reviewed VX CAD/CAM before, starting when the product had been on
the market only a year. It has certainly come a long way since then, and
virtually all of my complaints in earlier reviews have been addressed. Let's
take a closer look and see how v11 measures up. Read more >>

SPAR 2006
March 27-28, 2006
Marriott Sugar Land Town Square, Sugar Land, Texas
Sponsored by Spar Point Research. Call for papers is now under way. Conference
focuses on the business and technology of advanced 3D laser scanning. Case
studies on the use of laser scanning and other dimensional control technologies
will be presented by leading owner and contractor organizations.

In her easy-to-follow, friendly style, long-time Cadalyst contributing editor and Autodesk Technical Evangelist Lynn Allen guides you through a new feature or time-saving trick in every episode of her popular AutoCAD video tips. Subscribe to the free Cadalyst Video Picks newsletter and we'll notify you every time a new video tip is published. All exclusively from Cadalyst!